A Norwegian Cruise to Alaska is a unique experience that offers stunning views of glaciers, wildlife, and charming coastal towns. This type of cruise typically lasts around a week and takes passengers through the Inside Passage, a protected waterway that runs along the coast of British Columbia and Alaska.

On a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska, passengers can expect to see breathtaking scenery as they sail past towering mountains, waterfalls, and fjords. In addition to the stunning views, the cruise also offers a variety of activities and entertainment options. Guests can enjoy live music, comedy shows, and Broadway-style productions and participate in onboard activities such as cooking classes and trivia games.

Overall, a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska is a great way to explore Alaska’s natural beauty while enjoying the amenities and entertainment of a cruise ship. Whether you are a nature lover or simply looking for a unique vacation experience, this cruise will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a popular cruise line that offers a wide range of cruise options, including cruises to Alaska. NCL is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, allowing passengers to customize their cruise experience to fit their preferences. This means that passengers can choose when and where to eat, what activities they want to participate in, and what entertainment they want to see.

Norwegian feels like a family cruise. There are kids’ activities, and lots of family options for entertainment, and the buffet is every kid and kid at heart’s favorite place to eat!

 

NCL has a fleet of 17 ships, with the Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Sun, and Norwegian Joy being the  ships offering Alaska cruises. Both ships have various amenities, including multiple dining options, bars and lounges, a spa, a fitness center, and a casino.

One of the unique features of NCL is its “Free at Sea” program, which allows passengers to choose from various perks and amenities when they book their cruise. These perks include free specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions.

NCL also offers a variety of shore excursions in Alaska, including whale watching, glacier hiking, and dog sledding. These excursions are designed to allow passengers to experience Alaska’s natural beauty and its wildlife.

Overall, NCL is a great choice for passengers looking for a customizable cruise experience with plenty of amenities and activities.

Alaskan Cruise Overview

An Alaskan cruise is a unique experience that offers breathtaking views of glaciers, wildlife, and rugged landscapes. The cruise typically lasts seven days and takes passengers along the Inside Passage, a scenic route that winds through narrow fjords and past towering mountains.

 

The cruise ships are equipped with a variety of amenities, including restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and entertainment venues. Most ships also offer shore excursions, which allow passengers to explore the local area and participate in activities such as whale watching, hiking, and fishing.

One of the highlights of an Alaskan cruise is the opportunity to see glaciers up close. Many ships visit Glacier Bay National Park, where passengers can witness the stunning beauty of glaciers calving into the ocean. Other popular destinations include the towns of Skagway, Ketchikan, and Juneau, where passengers can learn about the history and culture of Alaska.

While on board, passengers can also enjoy various onboard activities and entertainment. From live music and comedy shows to cooking classes and spa treatments, there is something for everyone. Many ships also offer educational programs that focus on the wildlife and ecology of Alaska.

Overall, an Alaskan cruise is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Alaska’s natural beauty and rich culture.

Onboard Experience

Regarding the onboard experience on a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska, passengers can expect a wide range of dining options, entertainment and activities, and accommodation types.

Dining Options

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its Freestyle Dining concept, which allows passengers to dine whenever, wherever, and with whomever they want. The cruise line offers a variety of dining options, from casual to formal and everything in between. Some of the options include:

• Main Dining Rooms: These offer a variety of menus, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and sugar-free options.
• Specialty Restaurants: These are available at an additional cost and offer a range of cuisines, such as Italian, French, and Japanese.
• Buffet: This is an excellent option for those who want to grab a quick bite or prefer to eat at their own pace.
• Room Service: This is available 24/7 and offers a variety of options, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Entertainment and Activities

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of entertainment and activities to keep passengers entertained throughout their trip. Some of the options include:

• Broadway Shows: These are full-scale productions of popular Broadway musicals.
• Comedy Shows: These offer a variety of comedians, from up-and-coming to well-known.
• Live Music: This is available throughout the ship and offers a variety of genres, from jazz to rock.
• Casino: This offers a variety of games, including slot machines, blackjack, and poker.
• Sports Facilities include a basketball court, mini-golf course, and fitness center.
• Spa: This offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.

Accommodation Types

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of accommodation types to fit every budget and preference. Some of the options include:

• Inside Staterooms: These are the most affordable option and offer a cozy space for passengers to sleep and relax.
• Oceanview Staterooms: These offer a window or porthole with a ocean view.
• Balcony Staterooms: These offer a private balcony with a view of the ocean.
• Suites: These offer more space and amenities, such as a separate living area, a private balcony, and a butler.

Overall, the onboard experience on a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska is designed to offer something for everyone. Whether passengers are looking for fine dining, exciting entertainment, or a comfortable place to sleep, they are sure to find it on board.

Alaskan Destinations

Not all cruises hit all the destinations! If you have your eye on one, make sure it is on your itinerary.

 

Juneau

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a popular stop on Norwegian cruises to Alaska. Visitors can explore the Mendenhall Glacier, hike through the Tongass National Forest, or take a whale-watching tour. The city also offers historical attractions like the Alaska State Museum and the Governor’s Mansion.

Skagway

Skagway is a small town with a rich history. It was a significant gateway for miners during the Klondike Gold Rush, and visitors can learn about this era at the Skagway Museum and the Trail of ’98 Museum. Other popular activities include taking a scenic train ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad and hiking on the Chilkoot Trail.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing. Visitors can also explore the city’s Native American heritage at the Totem Heritage Center and the Saxman Native Village. The Misty Fjords National Monument, with its stunning waterfalls and granite cliffs, is another popular destination.

Glacier Bay

Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of any Norwegian cruise to Alaska. Visitors can witness the majesty of glaciers calving into the sea, spot wildlife such as humpback whales and sea otters, and take in the breathtaking scenery. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and camping.

Overall, Norwegian cruises to Alaska offer a unique opportunity to explore some of the world’s most beautiful and remote destinations. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that this type of cruise is becoming increasingly popular among travelers.

Excursions and Shore Activities

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of shore excursions for passengers to explore Alaska’s natural beauty and unique culture. These excursions can be booked in advance or onboard the ship.

One popular excursion is the Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest tour. Passengers board a catamaran to search for humpback and orca whales while enjoying stunning glacier views. Another option is the White Pass Scenic Railway tour, where passengers ride a historic train through the mountains and learn about the gold rush history of Skagway.

For outdoor activities, there are options for kayaking, hiking, and even dog sledding. The Glacier Point Wilderness Safari takes passengers on a scenic boat ride and a guided hike through the Tongass National Forest. Passengers can also visit a sled dog camp to meet the dogs and learn about the sport of dog mushing.

In addition to these excursions, the Norwegian Cruise Line offers cultural experiences such as visiting a traditional Tlingit village or a salmon bake. Passengers can learn about the indigenous culture and taste local cuisine.

Overall, there are many options for passengers to explore Alaska’s natural beauty and unique culture through Norwegian Cruise Line’s shore excursions.

Cruise Cost and Booking

A Norwegian Cruise to Alaska can be booked online or through a travel agent. The cost of the cruise varies depending on the time of year, length of the cruise, and type of cabin selected. The average cost for a 7-day Norwegian Cruise to Alaska ranges from $700 to $2,000 per person.

It is recommended to book the cruise well in advance to secure the desired cabin and receive any available discounts. Norwegian Cruise Line offers various promotions, such as free at-sea offers, which include free specialty dining, free Wi-Fi, and free shore excursions.

When booking a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska, passengers can select from various cabin types, including inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite. The cabin size and amenities increase with the cabin type, and the price reflects this. But if you want to see what Alaska offers, you will want to book a balcony to have a great view!

It is important to note that the cruise cost does not include additional expenses such as gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and shore excursions. However, Norwegian Cruise Line offers packages that can be purchased in advance to have some of these expenses.

Overall, the cost of a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska is reasonable and offers a variety of options for passengers to customize their experience.

Preparation and Packing Tips

Preparing for a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska requires careful planning and packing. Here are some tips to help make the process easier:

• Check the weather forecast: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for all types of weather conditions. Bring warm clothing, waterproof gear, and layers that can be easily removed or added as needed.
• Pack comfortable shoes: A Norwegian Cruise to Alaska involves a lot of walking and outdoor activities, so it’s important to pack comfortable shoes that can handle rough terrain.
• Bring binoculars: Alaska is known for its stunning scenery and wildlife, so bring a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at the amazing views and animals.
• Don’t forget your camera: Capture all the beautiful moments and memories of your Norwegian Cruise to Alaska with a high-quality camera. Make sure to bring extra batteries and memory cards.
• Consider bringing a power strip: Cabins on Norwegian Cruise Line ships have limited outlets, so bring a power strip to charge all your electronic devices.
• Research excursions: Alaska has a variety of exciting excursions to choose from, so research and book your favorite ones in advance to avoid missing out.

Following these preparation and packing tips, travelers can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Norwegian Cruise to Alaska experience.

Conclusion

 

Overall, a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska is a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers who want to explore the beauty of Alaska while enjoying the luxury of a cruise ship. The stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the region’s rich culture make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

With Norwegian Cruise Line, passengers can choose from various itineraries and ships, each offering different amenities and activities. From whale watching and glacier hiking to fine dining and spa treatments, there is something for everyone on board.

While the cost of a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska can be higher than other vacations, it is essential to consider the value of the experience and the convenience of having everything taken care of on board. With all-inclusive packages that include meals, entertainment, and transportation, passengers can relax and enjoy their trip without worrying about additional expenses.

Overall, a Norwegian Cruise to Alaska is an excellent option for travelers who want to explore one of the world’s most beautiful and remote regions while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a cruise ship.